What is the difference between a visa and a green card?

What is the difference between a visa and green card? A visa is generally temporary permission to seek entry or stay for a specific purpose (student, work, tourist). A green card means lawful permanent residence—long-term status with path to citizenship after eligibility. ^[1][2] Green card vs citizenship What is a green card vs citizenship—LPRs may live and work permanently but cannot vote in federal elections and can lose status for certain crimes or long absences. Naturalized citizens have full political rights and a U.S. passport. Types of visas Nonimmigrant vs immigrant visas follow different pathways. USCIS Green card categories include family, employment, refugee/asylee, and diversity. ^[2]